This week has been incredibly stressful, and at the same time, incredibly eye-opening. I’m embarrassed that it has taken this long for me to share Black-owned fashion brands on my platform. While it’s tempting to let that embarrassment cripple me and freeze, it’s more important than ever that we act and don’t stay silent.
There are so many posts going around Instagram sharing Black-owned fashion brands that it can be a bit overwhelming. If you’ve been following along here for a while, you know I’m all about affordable fashion. I have loved brands like Christopher John Rogers for a long time. But the truth is that I cannot afford to support by purchasing a $1200 dress.
So I wanted to do three things with today’s list:
- To share affordable Black-owned fashion brands or ones that have a few affordable items
- To share Black-owned fashion brands that I would genuinely shop from
- To share Black-owned fashion brands that you can shop in the Netherlands, as well as the US
This list is just the beginning, and I hope to add more brands to it as time goes on. If you have any affordable Black-owned brands you think would be a good fit, leave them in the comments!
*This post uses a few affiliate links, meaning I make a small commission off your purchase (at no additional cost to you).
Xx, Kelsey
Affordable Black-Owned Fashion Brands in the US
House of Aama – Some of the items I’d love to buy from this brand, like this dress, are far out of my price range. But there are some more affordable pieces such as this white off-the-shoulder top and these halters.
Jade Swim – I realllly wish this brand would ship to the NL without duties and taxes (which usually are $40+). If you’re in the US I highly recommend picking up a summer swimsuit here. I would be ordering this one-piece.
LemLem – Including this one here, even though it’s just slightly out of my price range. If it’s in your range, I highly recommend. There are so many perfect pieces for summer like this dress and this jumpsuit (perfect for the Fourth of July).
Andrea Iyamah – Ohh another brand I would LOVE to shop for summer. Sometimes it drives me nuts how little we can get here in Amsterdam. I’m obsessed with this flattering bikini and these happy pants.
Sincerely Tommy – While the dresses from this concept store are pretty pricey, the shoes are totally affordable. I’d keep an eye out for when these sandals come back in stock.
Affordable Black-Owned Fashion Brands that Ship to the NL
Libaya – This brand is located within the Netherlands, so it’s ideal for any of my readers here. A few of the items I have my eye on are sold out, but I bought this adorable checked top. The brand is “as feminist as it is feminine” and is influenced by the African way of dress with a focus on beautifully tailored tops.
Daily Paper – This is an Amsterdam-based brand showcasing the rich heritage of African culture wrapped in contemporary designs. I particularly love their crop tops and minimalistic t-shirts (which could easily be styled with bike shorts).
Savage x Fenty – The affordable lingerie line from Rihanna also features sleep and loungewear. Plus the EU site delivers to the NL!
Kai Collective – This London-based brand was founded by travel blogger Fisayo Longe. I’m obsessed with this blue dress although it’s currently sold out. They do ship to the NL, but don’t cover duties and taxes. I’m not sure what the cost of duties is from the UK, so I wanted to include anyway.
Míe – I’m obsessed with nearly every linen piece from this locally-made Nigerian brand. This convertible top and this wrap skirt are sitting in my shopping cart right now. The only reason I haven’t purchased is that I’m trying to find out if I’m responsible for duties and taxes on the delivery + what the return policy is if something doesn’t fit. Will let you know!
Black-Owned Fashion Brands for Inspiration
While most of this list focuses on affordable brands, I did want to share some of the brands that I find so inspiring. While I can’t support by buying from them, I can share them with you all to get your creative juices flowing and to keep an eye on upcoming trends.
LaQuan Smith – a glamorous aesthetic loved by Beyonce, Lady Gaga and Rihanna
Fe Noel – Brooklyn-based designer favoring bold prints influenced by her Caribbean heritage
Christopher John Rogers – occasion dressing with a focus on bright colors and his signature strawberry silhouette
Pyer Moss – described as an “art project” or “social experiment” the brand’s collections and runways combine storytelling, activism, debate, theater, and social commentary.
Brother Vellies – Handmade artisanally across the globe, the brand creates luxury accessories that celebrate cultural histories and timeless design
Fenty – If you don’t know Rihanna’s brand that is shaping the way we view fashion, you may be living under a rock
Off-White – Another brand you should already know. Off-White has been shaping streetwear for many years now, and the trends have been trickling down to high-street shops
Note: While I usually use affiliate links within my post, for the most part, the above brands are not working with liketoknow.it. I have requested integration for each of these brands, hoping their inclusion will encourage more bloggers to share.
